Vibram has been recognized as the leading solemaker for outdoor sports in the world for decades now. Ever since its first sole back in 1937, the italian brand founded by Vitale Bramani has never stopped its research & development efforts and have recently launched two major initiatives to handle tough weather conditions. Vibram Megagrip was designed to optimize grip on wet rock conditions, whereas Arctic grip focuses on winter terrain.

Jerome Bernard, Vibram marketing manager, talked to us at the recent ISPO Munich annual fair to explain how Arctic grip weas developed and why it does offer differential advantages, as we were able to test ourselves at the ice blocks set specifically to that end at the Vibram stand.

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VIBRAM ARCTIC GRIP: WET ICE GRIP TECHNOLOGY.

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The origins of Vibram are fully embededd in the alpine world ot rock, ice and snow. In 1935, tragedy drives Vitale Bramani to develop a sole capable of excellent traction on mixed surfaces. Using vulcanized rubber technology, he develops the Carrarmato design. It will soon be famous. Even today it remains one of the most used soles by mountain climbers.

According to the italian solemaker, this is the most advanced cold weather gripping system ever created by the company. Vibram Arctic Grip was designed as an all technology intent on advancing winter footwear to provide better traction and hence more fun on any outdoor action, from trekking to snowrunning. The Vibram Arctic Grip technology is entirely rubber material without addition of metal components or inserts and represents a new approach to the grip on icy surfaces, and very particulary on wet ice, as shown on the video above.

Therefore, Vibram Arctic Grip technology provides the best performance possible when the design of the sole features wide contact areas with the ground and rubber lugs with wider support surfaces.

The main benefits as listed by Vibram are three:

New operational technology on slippery, wet ice surfaces > Demos at ISPO Munich and other events did prove the point clearly.

Outstanding durability: An extra incentive, as winter shoes are not an everyday investment for may outdoor enthusiasts.

Surface friendly: it does not scratch soft floors. A major advantage vs metal spikes footwear for winter.
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